Question 1

Do I need experience?

Accepted Answer

No! We accept everyone regardless of previous martial arts experience.

Question 2

May I come and watch a practice?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! In fact, we ask that all who are interested in joining/practicing with us watch a practice before starting.

Question 3

What languages do you teach in?

Accepted Answer

Instruction can be provided in English, French or Japanese; however, one language might need to be used rather than the others if it is the most widely understood.

Question 4

How do I start?

Accepted Answer

First, send us an email or Facebook/Instagram message to arrange a visit. Then, come and watch a practice of the art you wish to study and, if you like what you see, speak to the instructor and arrange for your first session.

Question 5

What equipment do I need?

Accepted Answer

When you start, just comfortable clothes; we’ll lend you all the necessary training equipment such as kneepads, obi (belt), and bokutō (wooden practice sword) and plastic saya (scabbard) for iai and jō and bokutō for jōdō.

Question 6

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

We offer an initial free trial period of six weeks, after which, if you decide to join the dōjō, the monthly fee is $60/month. In addition, you’ll need to join the Canadian Kendo Federation, for which the membership fee is $50/year.

As for equipment, the uniform costs (keikogi (top), hakama (large pleated trousers) and obi (belt)) costs a total of between $155 and $260. For iaidō, you'll need an iaitō (blunt aluminium training sword) which costs around $400 and/or, for jōdō, a jō and bokutō (wooden training sword) which costs $150 total. You can also buy the equipment you were using for your trial period from the dōjō and get a discount if you order via the dōjō.

Question 7

I already have a sword. Can I use it in training?

Accepted Answer

It depends on where it was bought and how well it was made. Regardless, we encourage all beginners to start their iai practice using a bokutō (wooden practice sword) and plastic saya (scabbard), at least for their initial six-week trial period. If you decide to continue your practice of iai and wish to use your pre-bought sword, please bring it to training so your instructor can assess its suitability.

Question 8

Do I have to practice both iaidō and jōdō or can I just practice one?

Accepted Answer

You can definitely practice just one or the other but, as practicing jōdō can help with one's iai and vice versa, we encourage members to practice both.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions